Walsall volunteers to be recognised for doing their bit

Walsall for All, which is a programme working to bring communities within the borough together, is launching the Star Volunteer awards.

The award scheme is part of efforts by the programme to celebrate the work of volunteers and acknowledge the extra efforts volunteers have go to during the coronavirus pandemic.

The awards are designed to coincide with Volunteers Week, with Walsall for All asking for nominations for individuals or teams and recipients receiving a certificate of commendation.

Ron Davies is one of the first winners of the award, having become a volunteer befriender after previously using the services of Old Hall People's Partnership.

Ron, who has a caseload of 14 people he talks to regularly, said the service and volunteering saved his life through helping him talk openly about his feelings and increasing his confidence.

He said: "Volunteering is a wonderful, wonderful thing it helps you and it helps the people you support.

"Volunteering has become a part of me and I’ve never looked back."

Councillor Garry Perry, portfolio holder for culture and communities at Walsall Council, said the awards were a great way to recognise the work done by volunteers during the pandemic.

He said: "It goes without saying a volunteer is worth more than their weight in gold and contributes in the most positive way to civic and community life.

"Covid-19 has shone a light on many individuals some taking up a volunteer badge for their first time.

"The individual and collective acts of kindness, the generosity of spirit and goodwill have been an inspiration to many and it is right they are recognised."

The Awards and nominations are open to any volunteer or voluntary organisation in the borough and the deadline for submissions is Friday, June 5.

Nominations can be made online at tiny.cc/WfAstarvolunteer.